Nigeria Customs Returns 21 Stolen Exotic Cars Worth Over N1.8 Billion to Canadian Government

The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has returned 21 stolen exotic vehicles, valued at over N1.8 billion, to the Canadian government in a significant victory against international car theft syndicates. The official handover took place at the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) in Lagos on Tuesday, with the event showcasing the fruits of a collaborative initiative named “Operation Hot Wheels.”

Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, explained that these high-end cars, including Rolls Royce, Lamborghini Huracan, Mercedes-AMG, and Range Rover models, were smuggled into Nigeria using falsified documents after being stolen from Canada, the United States, and Europe. Adeniyi highlighted the operation’s strategic importance in curbing a growing trend of transnational vehicle theft, which increasingly positions West Africa as a hub for stolen luxury vehicles.

The Impact of Vehicle Theft on Nigeria’s Economy and Security

The rising influx of stolen vehicles into Nigeria has far-reaching economic and security implications, according to Adeniyi. He noted that such activities tarnish Nigeria’s international reputation, disrupt the legitimate automotive trade, and lead to significant revenue losses.

“The growing incidence of stolen vehicles finding their way into our region has become a matter of serious concern, as it not only undermines our legitimate automotive market but also strains our security infrastructure,” Adeniyi stated.

He added that tackling this challenge demands substantial resources, including enhanced border management systems and improved vehicle verification mechanisms. However, these measures divert essential resources away from trade facilitation and economic growth initiatives, exacerbating the strain on Nigeria’s already overburdened infrastructure.

Sophisticated Smuggling Techniques Uncovered

Adeniyi provided detailed insights into the sophisticated methods employed by criminal syndicates to smuggle these vehicles into Nigeria. False declarations and the use of legitimate cargo to disguise stolen cars were among the techniques used.

One notable interception involved a 40-foot container declared to contain used vehicles and auto spare parts at Onne Port. Upon inspection, the container was found to house three undeclared 2021 Toyota Highlanders, two of which were confirmed as stolen from Canada. Other significant recoveries included a Mercedes-Benz G550 and a Range Rover Sport, valued at N506.8 million, intercepted along the Trinity Axis in Lagos.

Additionally, a Mercedes-AMG GT and a Lamborghini Huracan, worth N630.8 million, were recovered. In Victoria Island, Customs officers seized a Rolls Royce valued at N231.8 million and a 2019 Lamborghini priced at N239.1 million. Two Range Rovers, 2023 and 2018 models, were also intercepted along Lekki and the Tincan Island Command, with a combined value of N267.1 million.

Collaborative Efforts Yield Results

Operation Hot Wheels,” a joint initiative between the NCS, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the Canadian government, has proven to be an effective strategy in addressing the growing menace of transnational car theft. Adeniyi lauded the role of international law enforcement agencies in sharing intelligence and facilitating swift action against criminal syndicates.

The CGC emphasized that continued collaboration with international partners would be critical in dismantling the sophisticated networks behind these crimes. He further called for greater investment in technology and personnel training to bolster the Customs Service’s capacity to detect and intercept stolen vehicles.

With the return of these vehicles to Canada, Nigeria has sent a clear message to global criminal syndicates: the country is no longer a safe haven for stolen luxury cars.

Therefore, the actions of the Nigerian Customs Service will enhance Nigeria’s image in the international system and promote significant economic activities between Nigeria and other notable industrialized countries. This is expected to stimulate economic growth within the country and improve the quality of life for its citizens.